Mum's heartbreak after son with 'heart of gold' tragically took own life as she urges others struggling to seek help

The mother of a University of Sunderland student who tragically took his own life is urging those who are struggling to seek help.
By Sophie Brownson
Published 7th Feb 2020, 10:29 GMT
Updated 7th Feb 2020, 10:30 GMT
Tributes have been paid to University of Sunderland student Tom Jackson.Tributes have been paid to University of Sunderland student Tom Jackson.
Tributes have been paid to University of Sunderland student Tom Jackson.

Thomas Jackson was just 21 when he died suddenly on Sunday, January 19.

The much-loved young man from Maltby in South Yorkshire, was studying media at the university and had ambitions to be a screenwriter.

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Paying tribute to her son, mum Lisa Jackson said: “Tom was 21 years old.

Tributes have been paid to University of Sunderland student Tom Jackson.Tributes have been paid to University of Sunderland student Tom Jackson.
Tributes have been paid to University of Sunderland student Tom Jackson.

“An only child he was our whole world.

“He had a heart of gold and would help anyone.

“He was studying media at Sunderland University.

“He wanted to be a screenwriter and his tutors said he had real potential to be a future writer.

“Tom had lots of friends and was loved very very much. He loved us all.

“I am urging anyone struggling to seek help, especially Tom’s friends.”

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A fundraiser has been organised by a friend of the family in memory of Thomas, with the aim of raising £3,500 to help his family cover funeral costs.

Rachel Stride set up the appeal on Go Fund Me and so far more than £2,000 has been raised.

On the page she said: “Thomas was a smart, kind-hearted Maltby lad, who was studying at Sunderland University.

“He had a heart of gold and was loved by so many people.

“It was impossible not to love him and his cheeky smile. He would do anything for anyone and he loved his family more than anything in this world, especially his mum and dad.

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“He had so many friends and a family who adored him and I know all of us are hurting inside.”

She continued: “All Thomas' family want now, is to be able to give Thomas the send off he deserves If anyone would like to donate towards Thomas' funeral, please do so on this page.

“Any donation, no matter how big or small will help and be greatly appreciated.”

To donate visit:https://www.gofundme.com/f/let039s-give-thomas-jackson-the-send-off-he-deserves?utm_source=customer&utm_medium=copy_link-tip&utm_campaign=p_cp+share-sheet

:The Samaritans free helpline is available 24 hours a day from any phone on 116 123 (this number is FREE to call and will not appear on your phone bill).

Related topics:University of SunderlandMaltbySouth Yorkshire